tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59008647393674386422024-03-05T01:03:29.220-07:00Life Exasperated1. to irritate or provoke to a high degree; annoy extremelyUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger74125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-19395362148946927402011-01-16T20:29:00.000-07:002011-01-16T20:29:20.929-07:00UpdateI finally got the new website functional so you can subscribe by email. I'd love it if you'd all follow me to <a href="http://whatmommadoes.com/">http://whatmommadoes.com/</a> Leave comments and let me know what you think.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-19975060313759219392011-01-14T20:01:00.000-07:002011-01-14T20:01:08.699-07:00My new, cozy .comI know this is a huge pain for you, my lovely readers, but I bought my own domain, and I'm hoping you will all move with me! That's right. I sucked it up and got a permanent web home. It's going to be more homey, and pretty, but still full of...whatever it is I have here. So, I want you to come along! You can find me at <a href="http://whatmommadoes.com/">http://whatmommadoes.com/</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-68013873897099517372011-01-08T16:06:00.000-07:002011-01-08T16:06:41.303-07:00Graduation and Random ThoughtsAs you may have heard, today was week 9 day 3 of the Couch to 5K program. That's it. The end. I finished! I never would have believed 3 months ago when I started that I would <em>ever</em> be able to actually pull it off. I'm not quite up to the 5K distance yet, but I'm going to work on my endurance and not worry about my distance for now. For today, I am just going to bask in the glow of Graduation.<br />
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I know I mentioned that I pray while running. While this is true, I don't necessarily pray the whole time I'm running. Today was a very random thought day, so I decided it would be fun to share.<br />
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I started off with a prayer for endurance. It was short. God is smart. He's run with me before, so He knows what I need. <br />
Then I was stopped and asked directions, so I gave them, only to realize I yelled at the people because I had ear buds in, something that my son does that annoys me... Moving on. <br />
I started thinking about what people must think of me as they drive by. After all, it was cold, windy, snowing, and I'm not a small girl. (No, I'm not gonna tell you my weight...rude!) <br />
That brought me to the things people (read : boys) used to say about me in my teen years. You know, back when I weighed 135 lbs. To all of them (you?), I'd like to say this: "I've seen your current facebook pictures. I at least have the excuse of giving birth four times. And you?"<br />
I'd like to send a special shout out to the kid who frequently sexually harassed me at the back table in Earth Science in 9th grade. He married a girl we went to school with. He's quite a catch, I'm sure. *insert eye rolling here*<br />
It was at this point that I turned the corner and headed downhill. I was thinking about how good my pace felt, my breathing wasn't labored, I was feeling good. Then a tumbleweed passed me. It's a good thing the wind was blowing 20 miles an hour or I would have been really insulted. You know, if there was no wind and it sauntered past me, sending a look over its stem...Show-off tumbleweeds really tick me off.<br />
I don't recall any specific thoughts in the next stretch, just joy. That was nice.<br />
I turned the corner and ran past a bush with a couple of dozen birds in it. As I ran by, they flew in circles and then away. I'm not a fan of flocks of birds, but I was extremely relieved they didn't all fall out of the sky, dead.<br />
As I started up the hill past the school (into the wind, no less), the fluffy snow turned into nasty little balls of sleet. I considered that maybe God was paying me back for all the nasty thoughts toward the high school boys, but then decided he probably didn't like what they had done to my self-esteem either, and chalked it up to Montana winter weather.<br />
Around the next corner, uphill, into the wind, again. This is where I always get happy because I can see my street and I know I'm almost done. I don't even care that it's uphill into the wind! Then I get to run one block on flat ground, and up another hill into the wind. This hill does make me hate running uphill into the wind. It's a good thing it's only half a block from there. <br />
And then the euphoria of the descending tone in my ear. I walked around the block to my house, stretched, showered, and here I am. A graduate.<br />
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I'm going to take a few days off due to the forecasted frigid temperatures, but will be back at it soon with the start of 10K training. <br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-12320477102291827842011-01-07T15:42:00.000-07:002011-01-07T15:42:26.022-07:00A ChallengeOK, a lot of you have said that you find my running "inspiring". I want you to prove it. You can say it all day long, but I don't see myself as inspirational. I'm just a woman who is finally taking time to take care of myself. If you really do feel inspired by me, I want specifics. <br />
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That's right. I want to know what you're doing. Have you started running after reading my blog? Tell me about it. Are you eating more healthily? What have you changed? Have you set a goal, and mapped out your route to success? I want to know what and how. Leave a comment or send me an email if you'd like to have your story on my blog. (cassielovespj at hotmail dot com) Let's face it, if <strong><em>I </em></strong>can inspire you, you can inspire people too!<br />
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Now, to all of you who are inspired, but not enough to do something about it, I offer a challenge. I challenge you to set a goal. Set a big goal. Set a small goal. Do whatever it takes. Leave your goal in a comment here, or email it to me. Want to lose weight? Set a reasonable goal. Want to learn a new sport? Find a class. Want to run? Do some research. Ask me questions. Whatever it is you want to do, <strong><em>SET A GOAL</em></strong>. I would love to support you on your way to success!<br />
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I appreciate all of you reading and commenting on my blog. I hope that I really am inspiring you. Now, go out there and prove it to me! Better yet, prove it to yourself.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-55295521907994772592011-01-06T16:12:00.000-07:002011-01-06T16:12:23.100-07:00Sweet, sweet victoryAfter Tuesday's less than fulfilling run, I was a little nervous. I took yesterday off because, frankly, my calves were killing me. I'm pretty sure I could not have run if I'd wanted to. But today... Oh, friends. Today was different. Today started out with a caffeine withdrawal headache, mama drama, and tears. And so I decided to take my frustration running.<br />
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I don't know about you, but I find it hard to take the time for Bible reading and praying throughout the day. My favorite time spent with God is while I'm running. That's right. With bad techno blasting in my ears, and slushy snow all around, that's when I find it easiest to be thankful for the strength, the endurance, and the determination to run. I thank God for my ridiculously sweet husband who stays with the kids with no complaints, and encourages me to get out there. I thank Him for carrying me along, for pushing me uphill into the wind, for giving me a hill to run down in the middle. It's very relaxing for me to have the time to reflect on life, and to see how blessed I really am.<br />
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Today, fueled by general frustration and my annoyance at not making it all the way Tuesday, I ran like never before. I ran farther (2.27 miles). I ran faster (though not "fast"). I was victorious! And it felt so sweet. I'm back on track, and I feel good. I'm not going to let one little glitch hold me back. And with that, Week 9 Day 2 is a success.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-43601103327046020752011-01-04T17:59:00.000-07:002011-01-04T17:59:25.127-07:00But it FEELS like FailureI expected to fail. From day one, I have been waiting for it. Honestly, though, I expected it to come in weeks 4-6 when the running times started to increase. I was sure it would happen when I got into the double digits. But it didn't. Not until today. Not until week 9 day 2 when I am just about to graduate from the program. I didn't see it coming, and when I realized what was happening, my eyes filled with tears, my heart broke, and I started to wonder what I had done wrong.<br />
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Did I psych myself out this morning when I realized that at my current pace, it would take me just over three hours of constant, consistent jogging to finish a half marathon? Maybe because I ran yesterday, and I needed to take a day to recover? Of course I wondered if I'm just not good enough to actually reach this goal. That's what failure does. It gets into your head and stands in front of all the positive words so that you can't see them. It didn't matter that I had made it this far. It only mattered that I didn't manage to own this workout, or even drag butt to the finish. <br />
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Of course, I know today wasn't an ACTUAL fail. I still managed to run over a mile, and I covered the same ground I would have if I had been running. In all honesty, I made it almost as far walking out the 30 minutes today as I did jogging it yesterday. The thing is, it really FELT like failure. I'm still not happy about it, but after spending an hour wrapped up in a blanket like a burrito, I know that life will go on. I will take tomorrow to recover, but Thursday had better look out, because I will be back out there chasing my dream.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-37243007072250314712011-01-02T23:06:00.000-07:002011-01-02T23:06:51.804-07:00Well, Why Not?I am a runner. <br />
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I know, if you know me, just the visual of me typing that sentence is hilarious. I am not healthy. I'm not in good physical shape. It has been a lot of years since I would have described myself as "athletic". And yet, here I am. Tomorrow I will start week 9, the final week, of the Couch to 5K program. I have been running (OK, jogging) since mid-October. I am not quite up to running a 5K yet (just over 3 miles), but I'm able to run a little over two miles in 28 minutes. I've never been able to run that far before. <br />
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I never thought I could be a runner. I was never given the chance to use an interval program as a tool to improve my endurance. As an asthmatic, I wasn't able to "just run" for 20 minutes in high school PE. I once managed 7 laps (that's 1.75 miles), and promptly retreated to the locker room to vomit. Running was something only the most athletic (and popular) kids did. And believe me, I was neither.<br />
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Now, here I am 15 years later, and I've gained all this weight from having babies. And stress-eating. And a general love of food. I don't recognize myself when I look in the mirror. I'm caught off-guard by the size every time I buy new pants. I'm too tired to play with my kids. I worry because my mom and dad both have/had diabetes and are/were obese. I don't want my kids to see me go through the health issues that my parents have. <br />
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Since it is a new year, and since I suddenly enjoy running, I've set a goal. I had already decided that I was going to move on to the Bridge to 10K after I finished the 5K program. Then, I was reading an article on women's races when I came across the See Jane Run in Boise. There is a 5K and a half-marathon, so of course I would want to train and run the 5K, right? Ha! Of course not. That would be too easy. Instead, I've decided to run my hiney off, lose weight, get into shape, and train for a half-marathon. It's only 13.1 miles...How hard could it be? (I know, right?)<br />
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So, all that New Year, New Me garbage is, well, inspirational I guess. It's finally time I took care of myself. (Not like that "Be more feminine" fiasco from last January. Wow. That was a bad idea!) I'll be sure to keep you posted. Oh yeah, Happy New Year!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-79036924647274631032010-12-17T12:08:00.000-07:002010-12-17T12:08:04.463-07:00As Promised, Pictures from The Plunge<br />
As you know, my husband, PJ, and a crew of guys he works with at <a href="http://www.texasroadhouse.com/"><span style="color: #660000;">Texas Roadhouse</span></a> raised money for Montana Special Olympics and then participated in the Freezin' for a Reason Polar Bare Plunge. I want to give a very heartfelt thank you to all of our friends and family who made donations. With your help, they raised over $900! The fun part for you is that I promised photos if you made donations. I'm not one to break promises, so enjoy! <div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-9370045397934429462010-12-16T22:25:00.000-07:002010-12-16T22:25:41.414-07:00My Chaotic Little WinnerIt's done! With the help of random.org, I've chosen a winner of the Chatic Craftiness gift certificate. Even if you aren't the winner, I think you should hop over to <a href="http://www.artfire.com/users/Chaotic_Craftiness"><span style="color: red;">Chaotic Craftiness</span></a> and see what Lisa (@TaderDoodles on Twitter) has up her sleeve! And remember, If you don't see something listed, and wonder if she can make it for you, <em>just ask</em>.<br />
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Are you ready? Are you sure?? Are you positive??? (Only fools are positive, or so my brother used to tell me.) The winner of the $10 gift certificate is... Anna!!! Get ahold of Lisa on Twitter and she will hook you up with what your heart desires.<br />
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Thanks for playing! Keep checking back for future giveaways, and let me know if you'd like me to host one for YOU.<br />
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*random.org was used to choose the winner of this contest.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-33405067975790217282010-12-12T23:02:00.000-07:002010-12-12T23:02:40.326-07:00The Secrets of My SuccessAs a lot of you know, today was my 2 month weight loss check in. The results are in, and I've lost several inches the last 2 months and I'm down 14.2 pounds!! It isn't enough to win The Biggest Loser, but it's enough that I can fit into three pairs of pants that I couldn't two months ago. It's enough that a few more of my shirts fit comfortably. It's enough to keep me going, keep me smiling, and keep me jogging, of all things!<br />
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When I shared my success on Twitter this morning, several people asked me how I did it. Since my goals, plans, and actions were hard to fit into 140 characters, I thought I would post it here for all to see.<br />
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First of all, I have made a few changes in my diet. I'm not ON a diet. And I didn't cut much out of my diet. I switched to Splenda in my coffee, and I eat yogurt with oats in it for breakfast instead of a big bowl of cereal. I try to buy fruits and vegetables to snack on instead of candy and other "bad" foods. I have made this biggest changes in my portion sizes. I still eat pizza, but have only one or two small slices instead of four. I gave up sodas, but every once in a while, I get a craving. Instead of drinking a Mountain Dew or Dr. Pepper like I used to, I grab a Diet Root Beer. I buy Lite string cheese instead of regular. Really, the little changes add up quickly.<br />
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Next, I've started exercising. I'm not talking about four hours a day in a gym. I'm sticking with 30 minutes, three days a week. If I manage more than that, great! My main activity is the <a href="http://www.coolrunning.com/"><span style="color: red;">Couch to 5K</span></a> program. Basically, it takes people who have no experience running through an interval program that builds up to an uninterrupted 30 minute run. I'm starting week 6 tomorrow. Friday I jogged (I'm not to the point of running yet.) a full 20 minutes, and I covered about 1.75 miles in that time. I haven't run that long or far in over a decade! When I do fit something else in, it's a Biggest Loser workout, yoga, or a Walk Away the Pounds video.<br />
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Last, I have a great support network. My husband is a champ, and lets me go out jogging while he hangs out with the kids. He's very supportive of my efforts, and proud of my accomplishments. My mom helps out with the kids when PJ is working. My friend, Rachel, also did the C25K with me while she was in town. Plus, I have a great group of online friends who are all working toward the same goals as me. It makes a huge difference when I have friends to hold me accountable, ask questions about what I've done and how I'm feeling, and can understand what I am going through. I know from previous experience that I would have given up weeks ago if it wasn't for all of them.<br />
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In short, I'm doing all those things "they" say to do: Eat right, exercise, and have a support system. I wish it was easier, but it's not. I'm not sure I will manage to hit my end-of-the-year goal (I have 12.5lbs to go), but I'm extremely happy with the progress I've made so far. It's not magic, but if you have any questions for me, please ask away. I'm hoping I will have a bigger (smaller?) success story to share with you next month!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-71579707358849827522010-12-10T22:36:00.001-07:002010-12-12T23:26:53.037-07:00You Look Like You Could Use Some Chaos!I think everyone should have a little chaos in their day. I don't mean the kind that makes you hide in the bathroom, or that you find at Wal-Mart any Saturday in December. I'm talking about the Chaotic Craftiness you get from "four kids, three cups of coffee, two sewing machines, one hubby, and zero sleep", better known as Lisa from <a href="http://www.chaosappreciation.com/"><span style="color: #a64d79;">Chaos Appreciation</span></a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyzUYBgErx0wIEKaXXkDSGYCGzjVYdQFsQejlqFghP84D25-0khQuVOf53VZNMiffbUrKKn_cEys4SAralUsg2oPLGTJuFZX4rmIPb-HcWp0xrG6sHYtXgTjphABtmNA0KDhh4znj0K8ta/s1600/December+2010+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyzUYBgErx0wIEKaXXkDSGYCGzjVYdQFsQejlqFghP84D25-0khQuVOf53VZNMiffbUrKKn_cEys4SAralUsg2oPLGTJuFZX4rmIPb-HcWp0xrG6sHYtXgTjphABtmNA0KDhh4znj0K8ta/s200/December+2010+010.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My beautiful card holder</td></tr>
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Just as her headline says, she's a momma to four kids, and she's very crafty. A few months ago, Lisa started selling her fun and useful products in an Artfire shop. (You'll be really happy she did because you're going to get a chance to win something from her!) When she asked if I'd like to write a review of one of her products, I jumped on the opportunity. Imagine how excited I was when I received not one, but two business card holders from her. There was a fun, feminine one for me, and a manly denim one for my husband. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85KjKlKUCSzEHVCbnix5f2ooq0Xp751ya4S6OOzaCSQGPicR2RZ0v7jQ3lRNb3zmYZdUXIEJsrpjrcrfHYRLFyK6VAGcmb9iNFgXAtl_BCKr0PtgoOgjptzuugV_ffddrn-dNvEVsZeB_/s1600/December+2010+011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85KjKlKUCSzEHVCbnix5f2ooq0Xp751ya4S6OOzaCSQGPicR2RZ0v7jQ3lRNb3zmYZdUXIEJsrpjrcrfHYRLFyK6VAGcmb9iNFgXAtl_BCKr0PtgoOgjptzuugV_ffddrn-dNvEVsZeB_/s200/December+2010+011.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The current contents of my <br />
business card holder</td></tr>
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Now, my husband has his business card holder packed full of, well, business cards. I don't have business cards, so I packed mine full of the cards I keep with me at all times. Take a look at the picture. It currently holds my debit card, driver's license, PetSmart card, Subway card, Flex Spending card, insurance card, and a Famous Footwear discount card. Though you'd think this would pack it tight, I know it will hold more. That's right. I used to have even more stuffed into this little card holder. Trust me when I say that they're well worth the $8 she sells them for in her shop. Plus, she has lots of fabrics to choose from!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkOBfzzppHtER4gjxRl48SbVxPXkpHCExR1EdvY7XkCD87wsM7oIriXU8620hScnMThumvriGgE0_dtfJX18KrEdRKre6f8eztNTSEnh_6XMdAaRbaGl9jiQaSbTiR3nlgR4Ea3RfYM9f/s1600/Tadey+Bib.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrkOBfzzppHtER4gjxRl48SbVxPXkpHCExR1EdvY7XkCD87wsM7oIriXU8620hScnMThumvriGgE0_dtfJX18KrEdRKre6f8eztNTSEnh_6XMdAaRbaGl9jiQaSbTiR3nlgR4Ea3RfYM9f/s200/Tadey+Bib.jpg" width="148" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These bibs can be personalized!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now the kids can take their crayons <br />
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If business cards aren't your thing, how about bibs? Or tissue cases? Pacifier clips? Maybe an apron? Lisa has a lot of great items in her store. They are all handmade, and they'd make great Christmas gifts. And the best part? I'm giving a lucky winner a $10 gift certificate to <a href="http://www.artfire.com/users/Chaotic_Craftiness"><span style="color: #a64d79;">Chaotic Craftiness</span></a>! <span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">All you have to do is leave a comment on this post telling me what you'd buy if you won the gift certificate. Besure to include your email address or twitter name so I know how to contact you!</span> Each person gets one entry, so make it good! </span><span style="color: black;">(To leave a comment, click on the number to the left of this posts' title.) Sounds easy, right? THAT'S BECAUSE IT IS! </span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Now, go on. Go check out her wares, leave me a comment, and early next week I will randomly choose a winner.</span></div>
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*Disclaimer: I do not receive monetary compensation for my blog. I do receive a sample product free of charge for evaluation. I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.<br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-54835244584649088422010-12-01T21:47:00.001-07:002010-12-01T21:58:13.972-07:00Do it for KevinI know this time of year brings a lot of messages telling you to give money here and donate to there and help this or that...The only difference between all of those other messages and this one is that <em>this</em> request involves two men who are very important to <em>me</em>. Most of you don't know them, and probably never will. That's ok. I will fill you in, and then you can decide if I'm giving you a worthy cause.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PJ and his winter beard :0)</td></tr>
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The first man I'm doing this for is my husband, PJ. He and the rest of the Texas Roadhouse management team have set a goal to raise $5000.00 for Special Olympics. I will tell you right now, they aren't even close to reaching that goal. In two days, these men will plunge half naked into a frozen Montana lake whether they raise the money or not. It's because they are dedicated, and this is an important event. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kevin with his 2010 SO Medals</td></tr>
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The second man is Kevin. He's PJ's big brother, my brother-in-law, and he has Down Syndrome. Kevin has participated in Special Olympics his entire life, and he has a closet full of medals to prove it! The sense of accomplishment he gets from competing is huge. Kevin is one of the sweetest, most down-to-earth people I have ever met. It's no wonder PJ is so committed to this cause.</div>
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I can tell you want to know how to help. I will tell you, but first, consider this: If we all do something small, we can make big things happen. I'm not going to ask any of you to donate $5000, though if you can and you want to, I won't stop you! I know the economy stinks, and money is scarce. But do you have $1? Or maybe $5? It'll help. If each of my blog subscribers gave $5, that would be an extra $105. If each of my twitter followers gave $5, they would raise $4295!!! <br />
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I wouldn't ask if this wasn't important to me. Will you help?? Every dollar is appreciated. The fun part is, if you get involved, we will share pictures of the guys during the plunge! They're not just dedicated, but also a little crazy! If you've decided you can spare a buck, visit their website <a href="http://www.firstgiving.com/texasroadhouse1"><span style="color: red;">here.</span></a> If you can't, that's fine. I thank you for taking the time to read this anyway.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GM John and PJ before the 2008 Polar Bare Plunge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-11848807475502055792010-11-27T16:33:00.000-07:002010-11-27T16:33:00.233-07:00Beaneath the Streets, Havre, Montana (Part 1)<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
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Poker table in the Sporting Eagle Saloon</div>
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While we were on vacation last week, my in-laws took our family on the most interesting homeschool field trip to date. We got to go under the streets of Havre into shops that had been built in the early 1900's. An arsonist set a fire in the business distric of Havre in 1904. The fire destroyed a majority of downtown Havre. Building materials were scarce and expensive, so the proprieters moved their businesses underground. Think of it as an underground mall. With nearly 20 stores in the tour, there was a lot to see! Each room contained authentic pieces from the time period, and many that were original to the stores represented in the tour. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the Bordello rooms<br />
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The Bordello was first used as underground living space for the Chinese railroad workers. Racism was prevalent in this area and time period, so most of the Chinese workers "hid out" in their underground rooms to escape poor treatment from the white and Native population. After the railroad tracks were completed in this area, the small rooms were converted into a "cozy" bordello. The guide didn't go into more detail than this due to the large number of children (mostly mine) in our tour group.</div>
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Some of the equipment in the Casady Blacksmith Shop</div>
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The Casady Blacksmith shop had more tools and equipment than I ever would have guessed! (Check out the huge bellows in the bottom left of the picture!) There was also a tack shop (Bruce Clyde, Dray and Tack Shop) attached with an old Singer sewing machine, an Antique Stetson hat, and a saddle that was handmade by a local leathersmith. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKSXWOekQkHDCZqPC8eSlw-UJZLIQ-0YsTR79qt-bEetEh0fVO7Txx0a-e8xjnH9sqdFN-eK9XESdya9G74t9ip1RnicpZZsbIgjV9wR2Rjm_cW3-JWl_WpC_8krF0ocRuHBiqI9TxwgU6/s1600/2010+067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKSXWOekQkHDCZqPC8eSlw-UJZLIQ-0YsTR79qt-bEetEh0fVO7Txx0a-e8xjnH9sqdFN-eK9XESdya9G74t9ip1RnicpZZsbIgjV9wR2Rjm_cW3-JWl_WpC_8krF0ocRuHBiqI9TxwgU6/s320/2010+067.jpg" width="320" /></a>Boones Drug Store was my favorite stop on the tour. When taking a prescription in to be filled, you could pass the time in their department store shooping for fine china and toiletries (like the toilet waters and egg shampoo in the picture at right). You could also settle in at the soda fountain (pictured above) for an ice cream treat. Each summer, there is an event held in the city beneath the streets and they actually serve ice cream and sodas in the little fountain area, baked goods in the bakery, and deli items from the meat market!</div>
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We had a great time, and this is just the beginning! I will get another post ready with more pictures next week. Come on back. I'd hate for you to miss the Opium Den or the Holland & Bonine Mortuary!</div>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-75503748888593531022010-11-22T14:23:00.000-07:002010-11-22T14:23:13.453-07:00Vacation Doesn't Always Equal RelaxationMy husband somehow managed to get the entire week before Thanksgiving off from work. This is a first for us. We started getting ready to leave last week. You know, washed clothes, cleaned the house, and packed bags. On Thursday, our two year old daughter threw up twice. Not good. Later that day, our six year old did it too. That's when I started to get nervous. After all, we were leaving on Saturday to go to my in-law's house for the week. It's normally a four hour drive, but with the snowy conditions all the way, we knew it would take longer. Then Friday came, and all was well, so I stopped worrying.<br />
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Saturday morning, we packed the bags, the kids, and the dogs into the car and headed out. The four hour trip took more like seven because the road was snow packed the whole way. The good news is, the trip was vomit-free. The bad news is that the days since haven't been. In fact, three of the four kids have been sick since we got here. They all made it through church yesterday, but dinner last night was a series of unfortunate (and messy) events. And the ten year old boy was up sick last night, which means I was up last night for about three hours. </div>
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Did I mention that I had a migraine all day Sunday? Of course, I did. I always have one the day after traveling.<br />
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In the middle of all the sickness, one of our pups escaped the back yard and went for a little neighborhood jaunt. I knew there was a reason I felt compelled to write their names and my phone number on their collars before we left town. Don't worry though. She only made it about two blocks before my father-in-law and son spotted her, in the Police Chief's yard, no less.<br />
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I'm very happy to report that I slept in until 10 this morning. The kids are all vomit and diarrhea free so far today. The dogs are contained, and have learned to use the doggy door. And the temp has climbed up to 0degrees. Yes, I said UP to zero. It's cold here, people.<br />
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Now we will just sit back and hope things continue to go smoothly. Two days down, five to go...Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-65608161990483322010-11-16T19:38:00.000-07:002010-11-16T19:38:40.682-07:00One Month Health UpdateI know I just told all of you last week that I was starting an exercise program, but I've actually been working on my weightloss goals for a month now. I'm not anywhere near reaching my goal yet (it's a BIG goal), but I am proud to say that I have lost 10 pounds! I am at a weight that I haven't seen in about three and a half years, not since before my last pregnancy. I'm excited! You probably can't tell by looking at me, but I'm OK with that as long as I continue to make progress.<br />
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My next goal is to lose another 15 pounds by the end of the year. That'll put me at a weight that I can't even remember for sure when I last saw it. It's obviously been a while.<br />
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The biggest hurdle for me is going to be that my workout buddy is going to be in Canada for the next month. Add that to the suddenly winter temperatures and a week at my in-laws' house for Thanksgiving, and see where I will be struggling. I'm still going to stick with it. I will find a way to get the workouts in each day. I'm not going to fail this time.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-44859875723482459662010-11-09T14:11:00.000-07:002010-11-09T14:11:00.238-07:00One of THOSE days...I know today isn't even close to being over, but seriously. I has already been one of <em>those</em> days. The kind that make me wish I was a drinker, or had to travel for business, or that it wasn't illegal to lock my kids in a dog kennel for rest time. <br />
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It's almost as if our house couldn't exist without drama, so we have to keep it at a max in order to stay grounded on Earth. With five kids in the house, there is never a shortage of drama. Today, #1 had schoolwork meltdown, #2 was suddenly unable to read, #5 was fascinated with hitting the dogs with their own chew toys, and #4 was obsessed with <u>every</u> <u>single</u> <u>thing</u> #5 did. #3 was pleasantly easy to coexist with. It must be his day off.<br />
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Now add a basket of laundry, numerous conference calls, two wet dogs, and three sleep deprived adults. Do you see what I'm getting at here? My question is this: WHERE. IS. THE. CHOCOLATE???Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-52644158933245010462010-11-08T18:28:00.001-07:002010-11-08T18:28:03.047-07:00Week 2 Day 1, and no I'm not joking<br />
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The temperature got up to 46 degrees here today, with constant 30mph winds. I don't even want to think about the gusts. After not getting any exercise the last few days, I decided I'd better go do week 2 day 1 of C25K anyway. Heh.</div>
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This happened 2 weeks ago...</div>
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I set out dressed in running pants, a T-shirt, a hoodie, cozy socks, Nikes, my ear buds, and a BSU stocking cap. (Have I mentioned it was cold and windy?) My water bottle all but froze to my hand.</div>
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My first running interval was, of course, uphill and into the wind. As if that wasn't enough, about 30 seconds into it, I was attacked by a Pomeranian. I didn't hear it come up behind me because of my music. It was 3 inches from me and barking before I knew it was there. I jumped, felt like an idiot, laughed at myself, and prayed no one was watching.</div>
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The next interval made me think I should cut my loop short because cold weather, jogging, and asthma don't mix. Then I got headed downhill with the wind behind me and changed my mind.</div>
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During the running portion of the 3rd set, my underwear slid down and settled atop my thighs. I would have straightened them, but I was directly in front of our new church at the time, and there was a crowd of teenagers in the parking lot. From this point on I literally froze my a$$ off.</div>
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The last running section was also uphill into the wind while dodging high school students returning from lunch. Did I mention my underwear were trying to escape my body?</div>
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But, I did it. I was frozen. And tired. And felt naked. And was so proud of myself and thankful to God for getting me through. Look out, week 2. I'm ready for you!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-66578907234927876192010-11-08T17:16:00.000-07:002010-11-08T17:16:05.250-07:00Week 1 of Couch to 5KI am happy to say that I lived through the first week of the C25K. The first day was a little boring because I downloaded a program on my BlackBerry to keep track of my intervals, but it wouldn't work with my music. I spent the quiet time praying for my friends, my family, other people like me who are afraid to fail, and therefore never try... I watched the horses in the pasture and the kids at the high school. And then I realized I had made it through. <br />
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Days two and three I used music from <a href="http://djsteveboy.com/intervals.html">here</a> that had already been set up with the intervals for week one. I'm not a fan of techno music, but it was nice to have something to listen to. It also helped that I had some great twitter friends who were willing to start on this adventure with me. We all have our own issues, goals, and approach, but the support system is wonderful!<br />
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Look out Week 2!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-28963734678647779782010-11-08T16:49:00.000-07:002010-11-08T16:49:08.142-07:00Taking the first stepI know you've heard me talk before of hating my current shape, wanting to adopt a healthy lifestyle, starting an exercise routine... Same old story. This time is different. I've been thinking a lot about all of the health issues my parents have dealt with, a majority of which stemmed from their obesity. I'm not getting any younger, and I'm extremely out of shape. I don't want to deal with diabetes and heart issues. I want my kids to have a healthier outlook than the one I grew up with. I don't want my kids to live by the idea of always having to clean their plates, whether they are still hungry or not. And I want to change my thinking as well.<br />
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I'm not saying I want us to be wasteful. I do want to be more aware of what and how much we eat. We will offer healthier options. My family loves fruits and veggies, so we should be eating more of them. The kids have plenty of opportunity to exercise, but I need to make more time for me to get moving. I will do my best to keep you all informed (and me accountable) of my progress. I'm too young to be obese and not try to change my circumstances. <br />
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The first step: Couch to 5K... Lord help me.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-771507465798954132010-09-16T22:13:00.001-06:002010-09-16T22:13:59.690-06:00And the Winner is...I'm about to post my 16,000th tweet on Twitter, and you know what that means! I've got a winner. I know you're going to love Erin's work as much as I do. With no further ado...
@SassafrasHill You just won a $40 gift certificate from Erin Lowden and Love Letters Jewelry!!!
Thank you to all who entered. I can't wait to do it again! Be sure to check out www.loveletters.name for gifts to match any occasion.
*The winner was chosen at random electronically from the list of entrants.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-72417830378076846062010-09-11T00:01:00.006-06:002010-12-10T22:34:15.465-07:00Super Saturday Giveaway!!!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Yesterday I introduced you all to Erin and Love Letters Jewelry. Today she's giving you the chance to win a $40 gift certificate! That's right. If you win, you get $40 to spend any way you'd like at www.loveletters.name</span></div>
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I can see you're excited, so let me tell you how to win. Each person </span></div>
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">gets one (1) entry. </span></div>
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">That's it. Just one. </span></div>
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">You can either leave me a comment on this blog post (just click the circle up by the post title) with your favorite thing from the Love Letters Jewelry website, your name and email address, or you can copy the following message and post on Twitter:</span></div>
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I want @cassie_d_ape and @lovelettersFW to make me a winner!</span></div>
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A winner will be chosen at random when I reach 16,000 tweets. (Less than 500 from now.) The more you talk to me on Twitter, the faster the contest will end! (But you still only get one entry.)</span></div>
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Why are you still sitting here?! Get yourself entered. And tell the guys to enter too because this would be an awesome gift! </span></div>
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">*Disclaimer: I do not receive monetary compensation for my blog. I do receive a sample product free of charge for evaluation. I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-16219070523285468002010-09-10T00:01:00.013-06:002010-09-10T00:01:00.600-06:00Featured Friday: Love Letters Jewelry<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYNXghGfEgaoj6hM6gLYAgg4N7RKmDASaBSwWCjSh7xpOk_IIByQSPA8bdbaXRBtkJuxXDSROa60YRpEVFUq5FZqqILg1fBYnBAKfcTuXO0iVVdwessi_2N88PJS60XClx9gMG-r_9sBsl/s1600/cassieblog5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYNXghGfEgaoj6hM6gLYAgg4N7RKmDASaBSwWCjSh7xpOk_IIByQSPA8bdbaXRBtkJuxXDSROa60YRpEVFUq5FZqqILg1fBYnBAKfcTuXO0iVVdwessi_2N88PJS60XClx9gMG-r_9sBsl/s200/cassieblog5.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This little box came in my mail today.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimsIx7SPZhFzxW1hjizW9v3CPsn3pIiE8BpwJE6Qh0c36H7CTCcoiCnLnOZfbY8d-IwvQ6DrtPsn8T2gU_mA-r58jkR3dSA2gtJxa6a_jnlCXPfNgT18ZXLi39IPQXs0GOarMQMarzZAAg/s1600/cassieblog1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimsIx7SPZhFzxW1hjizW9v3CPsn3pIiE8BpwJE6Qh0c36H7CTCcoiCnLnOZfbY8d-IwvQ6DrtPsn8T2gU_mA-r58jkR3dSA2gtJxa6a_jnlCXPfNgT18ZXLi39IPQXs0GOarMQMarzZAAg/s200/cassieblog1.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My own personal Love Letter</td></tr>
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I come across people of all sorts on Twitter, and while I'm nearly
a hermit in real life, I love socializing on the internet. Of course, I'm drawn
to people with interests similar to mine. One of my favorite aspects of Twitter
is meeting people who are creative and crafty, people who take pride in making
things for others to enjoy. That is what led me to Erin Lowden, or
@lovelettersFW.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Erin has a full-time job away from home, but when her husband,
Chris, was laid off, she decided to turn her hobby into a home business. She opened
Love Letters in April, and loves it so much that she would like to be able to
be a full-time work at home mom. (Her son, Jonathan is adorable. I can see why
she would want to be home with him!) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Love Letters Jewelry is high quality, personalized, hand stamped jewelry.
She makes necklaces, bracelets, baby bracelets, bookmarks, key chains, pets tags,
and even dog tags and golf ball markers for the menfolk! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For man's best friend . . .</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For Mom or Grandma . . .</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For the bride . . .</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: navy; font-family: 'Courier New'; font-size: 13px;">Erin's products are great gifts for birthdays, weddings, holidays,
new parents, graduation, and the list goes on. She has charms for nearly anything
you can think of. If your kid makes the bobsled team or your wife is an RN,
Love Letters Jewelry has you covered! If you're like me and you can't make up your
mind, you can always go with a Love Letters gift certificate.</span></div>
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When you fall in love with Love Letters Jewelry like I have, you can sign
up for the newsletter, check the calendar for upcoming events, and you can even
host parties (locally in Fort Wayne or on a website set up just for you)! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">You can check out Love Letters Jewelry on the web at www.loveletters.name ,
on facebook www.facebook.com/lovelettersjewelry , and @lovelettersFW on Twitter.
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Check back tomorrow for a special Love Letters Jewelry Super Saturday Giveaway!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: navy; font-family: "Courier New"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Disclaimer: The keychain shown above was provided to me for free to review. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.<o:p></o:p></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-88033943660010407362010-09-08T21:08:00.001-06:002010-09-08T21:08:35.937-06:00God's BlanketI had already had an ultrasound. My midwife had already told me I would miscarry. I already knew my babies (2 of them) hadn't developed and would never breathe, smile, or grab my finger. Still, there was a nagging voice in my head telling me to buy the two pieces of fleece in sweet baby prints. So I did.<br />
<br />
All this time I thought God was up to something in my life. It always takes me by surprise when I realize that it's not all about me. <br />
<br />
Last night while looking through my fabric stash for a cute piece to make a baby blanket, that same voice kept saying, "Not that one. Keep looking". Over and over again. Just as I thought I was out of choices, I came to those two pieces of fleece, hidden away in the bottom of the box. "Yes. Those ones. It's time to use them."<br />
<br />
I immediately burst into tears (because I'm an emotional wreck anyway) and formed my argument on the tip of my tongue. But God always wins. He said, "She needs to feel loved more than you need to hide away these pieces of fabric."<br />
<br />
I know this all sounds silly, but I always thought God telling me to buy it anyway was His way of telling me I would need it someday. For me. For my babies. I had no idea He meant it for someone I hadn't even met. But again, God always wins.<br />
<br />
I haven't cut into it yet, but I will. And I will wash it before I send it off. It's not fair to blanket someone else in my tears.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-51361284415950097112010-08-31T17:33:00.001-06:002010-08-31T17:33:41.081-06:00Fall is in the air, and the kitchen!Summer is the season of the young. I can recall the bliss of spending the entire day riding my bike around the neighborhood with my wild band of friends. A sun kissed glow across my cheeks and popsicles in my belly. As an adult, I've come to enjoy the arrival of fall. The cooler temperatures and beautiful colors fit this season of my life. <br />
<br />
As much as I like the changes in weather and foliage, I think I'm more in love with the seasonal food and drinks. So on this very gloomy, wet, chilly day, I indulged in some of my Autumn favorites. (I will include the recipes for you) <br />
<br />
As an afternoon treat for the kids (and maybe for me) I made a batch of no-bake oatmeal cookies. Ok, they are my favorite, but I did share with the kids. I also nearly cried when I was gathering ingredients and didn't have any vanilla extract. (Who doesn't have vanilla extract??) I hit up Google though, and found that I could substitute maple syrup for vanilla. Crisis averted!<br />
<br />
*No Bake Oatmeal Cookies<br />
<br />
Combine 2c sugar, 1/4c cocoa, and 1/2c milk in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, and boil for one minute. Remove from heat.<br />
Stir in 1/2c peanut butter, 1 stick of butter, 1tsp vanilla (or syrup), and 3c quick oats.<br />
Drop with a spoon onto waxed paper and let stand until firm.<br />
<br />
The cookies were so yummy, and such a hit with the kids that I got really ambitious and decided to make my absolute favorite cold-weather food...potato soup! I pulled out the old church cookbook (the cookie recipe was from the same book) and the first soup recipe was for a creamy potato soup and I had all the ingredients. That's a sign, right? <br />
<br />
*Creamy Potato Soup with Chicken<br />
<br />
Cut two chicken breasts into bite sized pieces and cook in frying pan. Set aside.<br />
Wash and cut 6 medium potatoes into cubes. Dice an onion (or not, onion is optional) and add the potatoes and onion to a large can of chicken stock in a big stock pot. When potatoes are cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove 2/3 to a large bowl. Puree the other 1/3 with the liquid and set aside. <br />
In the stock pot, melt 2tbsp butter and mix in 2tbsp flour. Combine to make a soft paste. Then add 1c milk. Stir continuously until it thickens and becomes creamy.<br />
Add in puree, potatoes, and chicken. I also added some Alpine Touch (a Montana made seasoned salt) and some parmesan cheese.<br />
Makes approximately 6 servings.<br />
<br />
*this soup would also be great with corn, broccoli, or bacon!<br />
<br />
The soup turned out creamy and delicious. Even though my kitchen is a MESS, I am in love with today. The air was crisp. The cookies were chocolatey. The potato soup was just like Grandpa used to make.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5900864739367438642.post-7457051645774558662010-08-10T10:16:00.001-06:002010-08-10T10:16:36.456-06:00Homeschool PE 101: No more training wheelsI love that we can choose from so many activities for homeschool PE. The kids express interest in something new every day, and we add it to our list of things to look into. However, we decided that our first PE activity should be learning to ride a two-wheeled bike. <br />
Our oldest is ten and already knows how, but the next two, ages six and seven haven't learned yet. Our oldest son learned to ride in three days, so I just assumed the other kids would be equally as quick to pick it up.<br />
<br />
I. Was. So. Wrong. <br />
<br />
The first thing my daughter said to me was, "What if I fall down and scrape my knees?" <br />
"Well, you will. It's going to happen. It might happen even AFTER you learn to ride. You just have to suck it up and keep trying." <br />
"But I don't want to." <br />
"I understand. No one WANTS to get hurt, but it happens. Sometimes that's the price you pay to have fun and learn new things."<br />
"It doesn't sound like fun," she replied.<br />
"Well, no. Getting hurt isn't the fun part. Being able to ride and the freedom is the fun part. If you just keep pedaling and steer, I will help you balance so you don't fall."<br />
<br />
*insert look of skepticism here<br />
<br />
So, she geared up, walked her bike out to the (very quiet and safe) street, and climbed on. I reassured her that I would be holding on. She put one foot up on the pedal and shot me a look that clearly implied that I would be held accountable for any skinned knees. Finally, she started to pedal.<br />
I ran next to her on the down slope. I practically pushed all 75 pounds of her and her bike back up. She wobbled. She jumped off. We repeated this several times. It was hot, frustrating (for both of us), and took a lot of practice, but guess what...<br />
Well, never mind. She didn't get it, and I'm pretty sure I had heat stroke by the time we were done. We both walked away annoyed, exhausted, and dehydrated. Two days later I was still thinking we should have started with something easier and less dangerous... Maybe archery or knife juggling. <br />
On the other hand, maybe there is such a thing as over teaching on things like bike riding. She took it upon herself to go out and practice. She risked the safety of her knees, not to mention our neighbor's mailbox (which she only hit once) and was successful. She's still wobbly and uncertain, but the training wheels are gone for good.<br />
While I'm still mad at myself for being so impatient and not knowing exactly what she needed from me in order to learn, I'm also wildly excited for her, and so proud of her determination!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1